The idea of being your own boss, working from home, creating more flexible working hours and running things the way you choose is very appealing, and after honing your skills and deciding to commit to your dream, starting your own business can be rewarding and extremely self-satisfying.

But, it is often difficult to take the big, scary, unsure step from your secure job to making it on your own! So, how do you know if you're ready to take this step, and whether your idea will be viable? Many people don't fulfill their ambitions or their potential simply because they don't know where to start. So here's our guide to self-assessment and some pointers on getting started...

1. Put your idea down on paper! Sounds simple doesn't it?! By writing your idea down you are making it more concrete, sort of like making a contract with yourself. Put the idea on display, maybe on the fridge, as a daily reminder of your commitment to building a successful small business from your idea, talent or passion.

2. Plan, plan, plan. Going in without a plan of attack is setting yourself up to fail! Develop your idea and define your goals so that you can reward small successes and track your progress.

3. Do your research. The key is knowing where you will sit in the market, and in order to do this you need to scope out your competition, be up to date on industry trends and news, and define what makes you different and better.

4. Be realistic! How much time can you really spend on your new venture while you're working in your current job? Also, how quickly will you be able to replace your current salary?

5. Be ethical. If you are already working in the industry you want to start your business in, think about how you will handle branching out. Remember that the clients and customers you had when you worked for someone else belong to that someone else! Poaching clients will only end in a tattered reputation and possibly law suits!

6. Set up a budget. So many small businesses fail in their first year of operation due to poor financial planning. Know your budget and stick to it - there are loads of ways to promote your business on a cost effective platform. And before you commit to marketing plans, know they are the right ones for your business.

7. Don't be afraid to make a mistake. Sometimes our fear of failure overpowers our ability to succeed. So long as you are making educated decisions, rather then emotional ones, you will learn what works and what doesn't.

8. Be proactive. Surround yourself with positive, successful people who you can bounce ideas off and make things happen for yourself.

9. Work on your image. You know how you shower, brush your hair, carefully choose an outfit and accessorise every morning? Well your small business needs the same amount of care. Make sure that your corporate identity is strong, representative and unique and you will ensure that your business leaves the same positive impression as you do. Remember, the great idea is only the first step to making your self employed dream become a reality.